MOSCOW — The Russian government has officially designated the British Council as an “undesirable organization,” a move that is expected to significantly restrict Russian citizens’ ability to pursue study abroad programs and international opportunities.
The British Council, a key co-organizer of the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), plays a central role in global academic mobility. The IELTS exam is one of the most widely recognized tests for non-native English speakers and is commonly used to demonstrate English proficiency when applying for academic programs, jobs, or immigration visas in English-speaking countries.
Under the new ruling, any form of cooperation with the British Council is now considered illegal within Russia. Experts warn that the decision may effectively prohibit Russians from taking the IELTS exam, or even paying for it, if such actions are interpreted as support for the now-banned organization.
The implications could be far-reaching. Without access to IELTS certification, Russian students, academics, and professionals may face increased obstacles in applying to foreign universities, participating in study abroad programs, or securing visas to countries like the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. The UK government, for instance, requires IELTS results for many visa categories involving study, work, or settlement.
Although the British Council suspended IELTS testing in Russia following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, many Russian citizens have continued to travel abroad to take the exam. That practice may now carry legal risks.
Under Russian law, involvement with an “undesirable organization” can result in fines of up to 15,000 rubles (approximately $189) for first-time offenders. More severe penalties may apply for financial transactions—such as paying exam fees—which could be prosecuted as criminal support of a banned organization, carrying potential prison sentences of up to five years.
The Russian Prosecutor General’s Office accused the British Council of advancing British foreign policy objectives “under the guise of teaching English” and of promoting what it called “extremist” values, including support for the LGBT community.
The British Council has yet to publicly respond to the designation.
This development marks the latest in a series of actions by Moscow targeting foreign-affiliated organizations, tightening restrictions on educational and cultural exchanges between Russia and the West.
As the space for international engagement continues to narrow, many Russian students and families are left uncertain about their future. With fewer accessible options for internationally recognized English testing, experts warn that participation in global study abroad initiatives may further decline.
